Dandenong fire: A massive fire breaks out in a Melbourne suburb

A massive fire has engulfed a factory and blanketed Melbourne’s skies in thick black smoke, prompting an urgent watch and alert from authorities.

Dozens of firefighters battle the out-of-control inferno at an industrial estate in Dandenong South, in the south-east of the city.

According to witnesses, several buildings are on fire and explosions can also be heard.

The fire is still burning out of control with sstrong winds blow smoke south of the fire.

Authorities have issued a ‘watch and act’ message to residents of Bangholme, Dandenong South and Lyndhurst to stay indoors.

“Anyone on the industrial estate in Dandenong South surrounding the Hammond Road area should take shelter indoors immediately,” the alert said.

Residents in surrounding suburbs should close all doors and windows, turn off heating and cooling systems and keep pets indoors.

Superior Drive and Hammond Road remain closed.

More to come

Workers in nearby factories on the industrial estate are ordered to stay indoors